How to Create a Show-Stopping Accent Wall With Sparkly Glitter Paint

A colorful accent wall is a great way to add a dramatic touch to a room. And while a graphic print or a complementary shade of paint would do the trick, why not take it one step further and add a fun coat of glitter to your wall? Using a do-it-yourself mixture of Mod Podge and an assortment of shimmer, you can paint on a sheen that can be as subtle or as confident as you'd like. Decorate a playroom with a hint of sparkle, give a bathroom mirror a glimmering backdrop or rethink the space behind your bed. Either way, this project will make a statement that's totally fabulous.

(Image: Machelle Vanderhoeven)

Things You'll Need

Mod Podge in "Glossy" finish

20 ounce normal iridescent glitter

11 ounce extra fine iridescent glitter

4 ounce jumbo iridescent glitter

5 ounce pink extra fine glitter

Foam paintbrushes

Container for mixing

(Image: Machelle Vanderhoeven)

Step 1: Mix the Glitter Coat

After giving your wall a base coat in your desired color and finish, mix the Mod Podge with the assorted sizes of glitter. For this project, the wall measured 8 1/2 feet x 17 feet. To cover the wall, approximately 1/2 gallon of Mod Podge and 40 ounces of glitter were used. To begin, pour about a cup of Mod Podge into your container. You should work with about a cup at a time to make sure the mixture doesn't dry out.

(Image: Machelle Vanderhoeven)

Next, add in the assortment of glitters.

(Image: Machelle Vanderhoeven)

Then, use the handle of your brush to mix it all together.

(Image: Machelle Vanderhoeven)

Continue to add as much glitter as you want. You really can't go wrong, since you can always add more coats. When it's ready, the mixture should be similar to cement — it should drip off your brush slowly.

(Image: Machelle Vanderhoeven)

Tip

Before you begin painting, tape a plastic dropcloth to your floor to avoid any spills. If you do drop glitter on the floor, wait for the mixture to dry, and then use a paint scraper to pick up the pieces. Any remaining drips can be cleaned up with a rag and warm, soapy water.

Step 2: Spread the Mixture Onto the Surface

Using craft foam brushes, spread the mixture onto your prepared wall.

(Image: Machelle Vanderhoeven)

Again, the great thing about this project is that it's very forgiving. You don't need to spread the mixture on perfectly, but it should be thick and free of clumps. When you have applied an even layer, let the mixture dry. It will take about five hours for the coat to dry.

(Image: Machelle Vanderhoeven)

Tip

The mixture will be white when you first apply the coat, but when it dries, only the glitter will show.

Step 3: Apply Any Necessary Touch-Ups

When the first coat has dried, go through and touch up any spots that don't look as full as others. Create the same mixture as before, but make it slightly thinner for the second coat. Again, use a foam brush to brush it on and fill in the gaps.

Step 4: Decorate the Room

Once the final coat has dried, add furnishings to complete the room. Now you have a unique and fabulous accent wall that is sure to be envied! (Note: the sparkles in the finished photos have been enhanced to be seen more clearly.)